Also known as Colombian Waxweed · Columbian Cuphea · Tarweed
Cuphea carthagenensis is a sprawling, herbaceous perennial or subshrub native to the Americas. It features small, tubular flowers in shades of pink to purple, blooming ye
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
High
75% intensity
Prefers full sun to partial shade. In hot climates, provide afternoon shade.
Moderate
50% intensity
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
Well-drained
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Thrives in warm temperatures between 18-25°C. Protect from frost.
Moderate
50% intensity
Feed with balanced liquid fertilizer during growing season.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
Non-toxic to pets and humans.
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Cuphea carthagenensis prefers consistently moist soil but dislikes waterlogged conditions. Water thoroughly when the top 2-3 cm of soil feels dry.
Reduce watering slightly during cooler months or if the plant is in a dormant period. Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot.
Prune Cuphea carthagenensis to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth. Lightly trim back leggy stems after flowering or in early spring before new growth begins. Remove any dead or damaged branches.
Pinching back young plants promotes a more compact form.
Cuphea carthagenensis is easily propagated from stem cuttings. Take 5-10 cm cuttings from healthy, non-flowering shoots in spring or summer. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone and plant in a well-draining potting mix.
Keep moist and warm until roots form.
Repot Cuphea carthagenensis every 1-2 years, or when the plant becomes root-bound. Choose a pot that is only slightly larger than the current one. Use a well-draining potting mix.
Repotting is best done in spring before the active growing season begins.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Cuphea Carthagenensis (Cuphea carthagenensis)
Where Cuphea Carthagenensis (Cuphea carthagenensis) is found
Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Myrtales |
| Family | Lythraceae |
| Genus | Cuphea |
| Species | Cuphea carthagenensis |
Similar in genus Cuphea
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
